'Best in the world' Nikola Jokic makes history for Serbia in FIBA Basketball World Cup European Qualifiers

The Denver Nuggets center led his country in their final window three clash against Bosnia & Herzegovina, knowing that his side had already progressed to the second round of qualifying.

Serbia started superbly, going up 27-15 in the first quarter and, despite losing the final two quarters, went on to secure a 94-81 victory.

As expected, Jokic delivered a phenomenal all-round performance and joined an exclusive club in the process.

The second round of qualifying resumes on August 24 and all matches are available to stream live or on demand via Courtside 1891 on DAZN.

Nikola Jokic joins triple-double club in Serbia victory

It had been nine years since the first-ever FIBA Basketball World Cup European Qualifiers triple-double, but now we have been treated to two in just days.

Mario Hezonja produced one for Croatia in their thrashing of Cyprus last Friday, and that spurred one of the legends of the game on to deliver his own.

It was Jokic's first home game for his country under coach Dusan Alimpijevic, and the superstar gave his fans exactly what they wanted in his 32-minute display.

The 31-year-old notched 20 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds with an efficiency rating of 37 as he led his country to victory.

Serbia coach hails Jokic after standout performance

Alimpijevic must be feeling blessed that he can call upon one of the NBA's stars to guide his country to the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

While Serbia must still progress through the next rounds of qualifying, they are in a strong position and will be fancied to reach the 2027 tournament in Qatar.

The coach was being quizzed about his captain after the final whistle and did not hold back when speaking to the media.

"Let me just correct you," Alimpijevic said via FIBA.

"He's not 'one of the best in the world.' He is the best in the world. The way he behaves, the way he understands his role, the way he approaches his duties, that's something that deserves full respect, and we're enjoying it."

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However, Serbia's coach was keen to pinpoint that Jokic's influence went beyond his statement performances in the third window and highlighted his influence off it too.

"Maybe our relationship from the past helped us a bit. You're asking me about making him team captain? Well, it's a short story: who else but him? No need to explain it further, that man did all the talking on the court, but what you aren't really seeing is his behaviour at meals, off the court, in the hotel... We're really proud of our captain." 

Serbia have been drawn in Group L for the next round of qualifying and will face Turkey, Italy, Lithuania, Iceland and Bosnia & Herzegovina, with all of their points carrying over.

How can I watch FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers?

The FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers are available through DAZN on its own dedicated app channel, Courtside 1891.

It is available either as a dedicated Courtside 1891 subscription or as part of your existing DAZN subscription for a small add-on fee.

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How much is a Courtside 1891 subscription to watch FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers on DAZN?

Courtside 1891 is available on DAZN in Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, and pricing can be found below.

How to watch FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers on DAZN

• On your smart TV, phone, tablet, or streaming device, go to the App store, search for 'DAZN' and download
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On a laptop/PC, visit  www.DAZN.com/home  and then follow the instructions above.